Wales will be our most difficult tour opponent: Erasmus

Rassie Erasmus has described Wales as the Springboks most difficult opposition in their November Test schedule.

Cape Town-180618 New Springbok coach Rassie Erusmus addressing the media at the Springbok Expecience ahead of their last test game against England at Newlands Stadium on Saturday.photograph:Phando Jikelo/African News Agency/ANA

Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus has described Wales, the Springboks’ opponents on Saturday, as their “most difficult opponent” of the outgoing tour to the United Kingdom and France.

The Boks finish their four-match tour on Saturday when they face the Welsh at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, a venue where the South Africans have not won since 2013. Kick-off is at 19h20 (SA time).

Wales have built an impressive unbeaten run of late at their home ground, while the Springboks failed to win any of their last three encounters in Cardiff.

Since losing by a single point to England at Twickenham in their tour opener, the Springboks have managed to beat France in Paris and Scotland in Edinburgh in their subsequent Tests.

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 10: George North of Wales is tackled during the NatWest Six Nations round two match between England and Wales at Twickenham Stadium on February 10, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Speaking in the Welsh capital on Monday afternoon, Erasmus was very clear on the challenge that awaits his Springbok side on Saturday.

“In our view, Wales are definitely the most difficult opponent we will face on this tour,” emphasised Erasmus.

“Warren (Gatland) has managed to build a superb side with lots of experience, and they are playing a good, balanced game, plus they have good depth and quality in their squad.

“They put Tonga away last weekend and the previous week they defeated Australia, so we are preparing ourselves for the most difficult Test of this tour.”

Erasmus also said that Eben Etzebeth, the most experienced member of the tour squad, will be assessed on Tuesday afternoon to prove his fitness in order for him to be considered for selection.

“Last week I said it was a 50/50 (for him to be ready), I’m a little bit more optimistic this week,” said Erasmus.

Meanwhile, World Rugby announced that Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has received a Citing Commissioner Warning for an incident that happened in the 31st minute of the Test against Scotland on Saturday at BT Murrayfield.

Erasmus said it was a good thing to know the outcome so early in the week:

“He’s our captain and to have him available from the beginning of the week is good because sometimes these things can take a while as they look for clarity.”

The Springboks started their preparation with a field session on Monday afternoon, and they will do so again on Tuesday and Thursday, when Erasmus will confirm the Springbok match-23.